Tax Returns: Nothing, a new DAC or... ?

+1 @cissado 

I'll take your advice, for sure!

OK, one thing is clear, this thread has turned into a  "how much do you hate credit card" thread and I'm completely here for it!

or maybe a used Manhattan ll will not only sound better, but will hold it's value for a few years as prices for everything increases...

This is always a quandry.  I bought the last new-in-box Luxman 507ux in the US for like 50% off retail.  So, sure I could sell it used for more than I paid right now, but then I'd be left with nothing to listen to.  🤣

To give you an example, I'm intrigued a lot by the Mytek Manhattan II but I've never heard it.  If it's somewhat better sounding, the network interface would make it a worthwhile investment for me.

Hey @mahgister  Well I have 6 more pieces from GIK Acoustics arriving in the next couple of weeks, so my room treatment, except for the ceiling, will be complete.  I really do like the Mytek.  I was really only asking for opinions of a DAC to listen to that others might feel was worth the delta.  I also have a room full of gear I need to get rid of so with a little effort I could even make it a low cost transaction for me.

I already have a Topping DAC I don't listen to except in emergencies.

The one feature that would be nice to have is built-in Ethernet/Roon endpoint.  This would be mostly a convenience and simplifying action, letting me get rid of 1 more piece of gear in my stack. 

Thanks for the recomendation, @direwolf336 - I have gone through 2 outboard power supplies and the iFi has been stellar for me.  No better or worse than my previous Astron, but a lot smaller.

@jl35 I wish I had the opportunity to.  :) 

I wouldn’t call Magico’s sterile... but cool, and smooth on the top end.

Still, given my multiple auditions of Magicos and the top end Vandersteen at a show, I’d stick with Vandersteen.

Don't know what speakers you have now, but treat the room before you upgrade speakers.

@rsf507  You are right, I meant the M3 with the streaming add on card.